Early look: Rethinking recycling – where does it go?

As our upcoming special report invites you to rethink recycling, we’d also like you to reconsider waste. Here’s a few tips to limit what you throw out:

Pick up a reusable tote bag for shopping at the grocery or department store. If you’re in a pinch, just be sure to return those grocery bags to the store the next time you go shopping.

Utilize plastic containers in place of disposable Ziploc bags. Pack them in a lunch box. Try to pack a meal where the only things you don’t bring home is the food you’re enjoying! And if you have unwanted leftovers, be sure to compost!

Put away the plastic forks and knives! According to the Clean Air Council, Americans throw away enough plastic cups, forks, and spoons to circle the equator 300 times a year!

Digital first! Cut down on paper bills and switch to electronic billing.

Donate! Clothing, toys, electronics – they say one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, but we don’t have to take it literally!

For more tips, check out the City of Portland website on how to reduce waste in the workplace at https://www.portlandoregon.gov/sustainabilityatwork/article/559575?archive=yes

And please watch our special report “Rethinking Recycling” Thursday night on NewsChannel 21 at 6.